Introduction to License Plate Recognition (LPR) Access Control

License Plate Recognition (LPR), also known as Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), is fundamentally changing vehicle access control—especially in high-security locations like embassies, military bases, prisons, and government buildings. By automatically scanning and processing license plate information, LPR systems can instantly verify vehicles, link them to their owners, and enforce access policies seamlessly.

With over 800 million parking spaces in the U.S. alone—covering roughly 5% of all surface areas—the demand for smarter access control has never been greater. Traditional solutions like keypads, keycards, and on-site security guards have long been the norm, but LPR technology offers a faster, safer, and more convenient alternative for parking garages, gated communities, and restricted areas.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about LPR access control, including its benefits, how it works, hardware options, real-world applications, and key factors to consider when choosing a system.

Why Choose LPR for Access Control? Key Benefits

• Faster, seamless access – No need to stop and scan a keycard; gates open automatically for authorized vehicles.
• Reduced traffic congestion – Minimizes bottlenecks during peak hours.
• Improved safety – Lowers the risk of vehicle collisions at entry and exit points.
• Enhanced visitor management – Automates tracking and logging of visitor arrivals.
• Optimized parking allocation – Ensures better space utilization for staff and visitors.
• Personalized guidance – Directs visitors to designated parking areas.
• Stronger security monitoring – Detects unauthorized vehicles, overstays, and illegal entries.
• Weatherproof convenience – Eliminates the need to roll down windows in extreme weather conditions.
• No risk of lost or stolen access cards – Removes dependency on physical key fobs or access passes.
• Detailed entry and exit logs – Maintains a comprehensive audit trail of vehicle movements.
• Customizable access rules – Allows time-based or restricted access configurations.
• Simple registration process – Easily adds or removes authorized license plates.
• As LPR technology advances, it is becoming the preferred choice for organizations aiming to enhance security while improving efficiency.

How License Plate Recognition Access Control Systems Work

LPR technology functions through a defined process:

1. Image Capture: Cameras capture images of vehicle license plates at entry and exit points
2. Image Processing: The software decodes the images into readable plate numbers
3. Database Matching: The system matches the plate number against predefined databases of authorized vehicles
4. Access Decision: Based on the match, the system either grants or denies access
5. Automated Response: For authorized vehicles, barriers open automatically without requiring the driver to stop

These systems support integration with installed video management software (VMS) or other security systems, allowing users to search records by plate number, country of origin, or vehicle characteristics. Some of the advanced features include wildcard searching for partial matches, identification of vehicle make and model, and real-time updating of vehicle lists.

Top LPR/ANPR Cameras for Vehicle Access Control

1. Micropak

• Most suitable for: Challenging sites with very short distances and open angles
• Features:

• Adjustable recognition distance from 5 ft (1.5 m) to 51 ft (15.5 m)
• High-quality confidence level for efficient processing
• 20 ms processing time
• Maximum vehicle speed: 155 mph
• Dry contact to directly control barriers
• Dangerous Goods Plate Recognition capability

• Affordability: High-end solution

2. Nanopak

• Most suitable for: Barrier or totem embedding
• Features:

• Real-time license plate reading
• Adjustable recognition distance from 5 ft (1.5 m) to 20 ft (6 m)
• High-quality confidence level
• Maximum vehicle speed: 155 mph
• Dry contact to directly control barriers

• Affordability: More affordable than Micropak while maintaining reliability

3. Picopak

• Most suitable for: Police duty and on-street parking monitoring
• Features:

• World's smallest LPR camera
• All-integrated processing inside the camera (no server needed)
• Flexible for temporary or permanent vehicle integration (even on scooters)
• Ultra-compact (4x4x2 in. or 10x10x4cm)
• Low weight (less than 1.4 lbs / 600 g)
• Low energy consumption (6 W average)
• Automatic adjustment of filming and lighting parameters

• Affordability: Compact, cost-effective solution

4. Visipak

• Most suitable for: ITS and Tolling applications requiring long-distance recognition at high speeds
• Features:

• All-integrated processing (no LPR server needed)
• Enhanced accuracy with extra AI module
• 20 ms processing time for vehicles at speeds up to 155 mph (250 km/h)
• No trigger needed for frictionless applications
• Adjustable recognition distance from 23 to 115 ft (7 to 35 m)

• Affordability: Premium solution for high-speed applications

5. Geovision GV-LPC2011 2MP

• Most suitable for: General-purpose LPR applications
• Features:

• Multiple compression formats (MJPEG, H.264)
• Field of view: 40° horizontal, 102° total
• 30fps at 1080P resolution
• Motorized automatic zoom lens (3-9mm)
• CMOS sensor (1/2.8")
• IP67 and IK10 protection
• Suitable for outdoor use

• Affordability: Mid-range solution

6. Vivotek LPC-V2

• Most suitable for: High-frame-rate applications
• Features:

• Multiple compression formats (H.265, H.264, MJPEG)
• 60fps at 1920 x 1080 resolution
• Varifocal lens (12-40mm)
• CMOS sensor (1/2")
• Designed for indoor use

• Affordability: Mid to high-range solution

7. AXIS License Plate Verifier Kit

• Most suitable for: Freeflow traffic in city centers, access roads, gated communities, and campuses
• Features:

• Preinstalled AXIS License Plate Verifier analytics
• 29 mm telephoto lens for sharp reading from 7-20m (20-65ft)
• HDTV 1080p resolution
• Automatic focus setting
• Integration with AXIS Camera Station
• Proven performance in tough weather conditions

• Affordability: Cost-effective solution

8. Verkada LPR Solution

• Most suitable for: Organizations requiring real-time monitoring and streamlined vehicle investigations
• Features:

• Edge-based processing and computer vision technology
• Captures license plates at speeds up to 80 mph / 128 kph
• Covers up to three lanes with a single camera
• Custom descriptions for each license plate
• Custom alerts for plates of interest
• Retains key camera functionality in LPR mode
• Motion searches and recorded history review

• Affordability: Enterprise-level solution

Where to Use License Plate Recogntion Systems

Gated Communities

• Limits unregistered access by flagging unauthorized vehicles
• Provides an audit trail for security personnel
• Integrates with other security systems for comprehensive protection

Office Buildings

• No electronics to jam or misread, unlike card readers
• No expensive tags to distribute to employees
• Prevents former employees from accessing the premises
• Can alert security when specific vehicles arrive

Enterprise Facilities

• Automates vehicle access control for company premises
• Implements time-restricted access authorizations
• Reduces administrative effort and simplifies workflows
• Integrates with electronic access control systems

High-Security Sites

• Enhances monitoring capabilities for embassies, nuclear plants, and military sites
• Links vehicles to registered data for more informed security decisions
• Provides accurate records of all vehicle movement

Parking Management

• Improves traffic flow during peak hours
• Enables accurate space assignment and utilization
• Monitors parking overstays and unauthorized use

Key Considerations When Choosing an LPR System

When selecting an LPR access control system, consider these factors:

1. Integration capabilities - Ensure the system works with your existing security infrastructure
2. Processing speed - Select a system that can handle your traffic volume and vehicle speeds
3. Recognition distance - Choose appropriate camera models based on your entry points
4. Environmental conditions - Verify the system can perform in your climate and lighting conditions
5. Installation requirements - Consider wireless options for simpler setup if wiring is challenging
6. Software features - Evaluate database management, alert systems, and reporting capabilities
7. Scalability - Plan for future expansion needs
8. User interface - Select systems with intuitive management interfaces
9. Support and maintenance - Ensure ongoing technical support is available
10. Cost-effectiveness - Balance initial investment against long-term benefits and operational savings

The ideal LPR access control system will provide secure, convenient access that supplements your overall security strategy, contributing to the safety and operational effectiveness of your specific environment.

‍